Today’s Encouragement is, “That is why the LORD says, ‘Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.’ Return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish.” Joel 2:12-13 NLT
Turn to Me –
When we are in grief – for anything – it may be the tragic loss of a loved one, of a marriage, a dream, a hope, or a career… these can cause very deep grieving and sorrow. We can also grieve over our sin, as in this passage, when we have turned away from Him, gradually and unconsciously, or suddenly and intentionally… we have turned from Him to ourselves, someone, or something.
In either type of grief – an unimaginable loss – or our unimaginable sin…
God expresses to us in this passage that we can turn to Him, return to Him, and Now is the time! Give our hearts to Him (a decision we make). Tearing our hearts inwardly…away from our grief, sin, and sorrow… and return to Him.
He invites us to Turn and Return to Him… because He is Merciful and Compassionate, slow to anger, and FILLED with UNFAILING LOVE!
Thank You, Father, that You are always ready to accept us when we turn from ourselves, our sin, our sorrow… and return to You!
The Lord is Gracious and Compassionate
Vineyard Worship
Today’s Encouragement 